NOTE: As provided in LFC policy, this report is intended for use by the standing finance committees of the legislature.  The Legislative Finance Committee does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of the information in this report when used in any other situation.

Only the most recent FIR version, excluding attachments, is available on the Intranet. Previously issued FIRs and attachments may be obtained from the LFC office in Suite 101 of the State Capitol Building North.

Relates to HJM 19, SJM 6

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

LFC Files

Department of Finance and Administration (DFA)

State Land Office

Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department (EMNRD)

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

House Joint Memorial 41 expresses the interest of the legislature in land use planning and requests the Local Government Division (LGD) of the Department of Finance and Administration to conduct an inventory of city and county land use planning procedures and enforcement capabilities. It also asks the LGD to document problems in implementing sound land use policies. The memorial asks LGD to report their findings and recommendations to an interim legislative committee by November 1, 2001.

Significant Issues

LGD believes that the study requested by this memorial could build on the work that LGD did in 1997, when it surveyed local governments on land use planning. That study revealed that three-quarters of municipalities and counties have some type of comprehensive land use plan. LGC notes, however, that the efficacy of the plans is doubtful because of the lack of a common legal framework and few enforcement mechanisms.

LGD also notes that many communities have asked for assistance in carrying out comprehensive planning. An updated survey, as requested by this memorial, would be a tool to determine the kinds of planning assistance and legislative changes needed by local governments.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

This is a memorial and does not contain an appropriation.

ADMINISTRATIVE IMPLICATIONS

The Local Government Division believes that its staff is capable of conducting the requested survey.

CONFLICT/DUPLICATION/COMPANIONSHIP/RELATIONSHIP

House Joint Memorial19 requests the New Mexico Municipal League and the New Mexico Association of Counties to conduct a study on the terminology used by local governments when discussing zoning classifications. Senate Joint Memorial 6 requests the Legislative Council to continue the Interim Land Use Committee or to assign an appropriate interim legislative committee to further study land use issues.

OTHER SUBSTANTIVE ISSUES

The Interim Land Use Committee was created in 1999 to study and evaluate planning, zoning, land use and subdivision enabling statutes and to provide a forum for state, county and municipal officials, along with representatives of the private sector and public interest groups. In 2000, the committee was given the additional mandate of conducting a comprehensive review of local government issues.

LP/ar