New Mexico land boss says no to offer from US border agency
New Mexico’s top land boss has rejected a proposal from the federal government to settle an easement dispute over land along the U.S.-Mexico.
Land Commissioner Aubrey Dunn contends the government never received authorization to access state trust land that borders the international boundary and hasn’t compensated the state for using the property.
After months of negotiations, Dunn said Wednesday he’s disappointed with an government appraisal that amounts to less than $9,000. He said that’s a fraction of what the state should receive in easement fees.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection said it continues to coordinate with Dunn’s office but wouldn’t comment further on the on-going discussions.
The parcel in question is among millions of acres around the state that are held in trust, with the proceeds of any easements, development or leases helping to fund public education.
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