Cindy Hollenberg

The board scheduled a meeting to deliberate on proposed amendments to 7.6.2 NMAC concerning food service and food processing regulations.

The board discussed current advisory board vacancies and the process for identifying potential candidates with relevant operator experience. Additionally, the board reviewed the Operator Certification Program guidebook, focusing on the reformatted criteria and discussing potential revisions to ensure clarity, policy consistency, and improved accessibility for applicants and certified operators.

The board discussed the 2026 Open Meetings Act requirements and procedural expectations for the calendar year. Updates were provided regarding the Drinking Water Bureau, including revisions to drinking water rules, and the Operator Certification Program, which covered exam statistics, training resources, and operator education needs. The New Mexico Water and Wastewater Association presented on training opportunities, particularly for small systems. Additionally, the meeting included updates on the Point Source Pollution Program concerning groundwater surface protection amendments, and a report on the Domestic Waste Team regarding the implementation of a new online permit application.

The meeting included the formal welcome of a new Advisory Board member. Key discussion topics included a review of the Board's function, roles, and decision-making framework, as well as operational updates provided by the Drinking Water Bureau, the Surface Water Quality Bureau regarding the Point Source Pollution Program, and the Operator Certification Program. The Board also addressed administrative matters, including scheduling the next meeting for January 2026.

The board meeting agenda includes discussion on standard operating procedures for the appointment of board members, including proposed updates and adoption. Membership terms expiring in June will be reviewed, followed by nominations and voting for new members. The meeting will feature reports and updates from the NMED Water Protection Division covering compliance, enforcement, drinking water, operator certification, groundwater quality, and surface water quality. Updates from the New Mexico Water and Wastewater Association will be presented, along with discussions on new regional water security planning and other business.