REQUESTING FUNDING FROM THE UNITED STATES CONGRESS TO ASSIST LOCAL GOVERNMENTS NATIONWIDE IN THEIR EFFORTS TO IMPROVE THEIR INFRASTRUCTURES.

WHEREAS, our nation is comprised of communities of varying sizes and vast numbers of Americans live and raise children in small communities, some where their families have resided with pride for generations; and

WHEREAS, many local governments are in dire need of improvements of their infrastructure in order for their citizens to enjoy the amenities and quality of life experienced in large cities; and

WHEREAS, it can be at best difficult and at worst impossible for local governments, particularly those with smaller populations, to obtain the necessary financing, by way of securing loans, required to pay for much-needed projects that would improve their infrastructures; and

WHEREAS, even the most basic improvements such as construction or repair of curbs and gutters can be financially out of reach for local governments; and

WHEREAS, in some locations, residents are affected severely and on a regular basis by water drainage and run-off problems stemming from antiquated systems in dire need of updating and modernizing; and

WHEREAS, infrastructure improvements such as street paving, drainage systems, water supply systems and erosion prevention, to name only a few, are extremely costly; and

WHEREAS, the lack of funds to make these types of improvements can impede a small community's ability to sustain its existence or growth; and

WHEREAS, the states are not always financially able to appropriate funds for infrastructure needs to the local governments within their boundaries;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that the United States congress be requested to appropriate funds to assist local governments nationwide with much-needed infrastructure improvements; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the New Mexico congressional delegation be requested to join the delegations from other states to introduce and pass legislation to provide funding to local governments nationwide for their infrastructure improvements; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this memorial be transmitted to the New Mexico congressional delegation.