The Sunland Park City Council has approved a new water and wastewater rate structure for the local water utility. The updated rates will go into effect January 1, 2026.

As part of the approval process required for the regional system, the CRRUA Board of Directors approved the rate plan on November 10, 2025, followed by the Doña Ana County Commission on November 14, 2025. CRRUA provides water and wastewater services to Sunland Park and Santa Teresa.

The rate structure is based on a Cost of Service Rate Study conducted by Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc. The study reviewed system operations, customer usage characteristics, financial needs, and cost allocation methods commonly used in the industry. The purpose of the study was to determine the revenue requirements necessary to operate and maintain the water and wastewater systems and to allocate those costs among customer classes.

According to the study materials, several factors contribute to the need for adjustments, including operating costs such as chemicals and repairs, personnel planning, capital projects to replace existing assets or meet system demand, and financial requirements such as debt service coverage and recommended operating reserves.

The Cost of Service Rate Study also notes that the water and wastewater systems serve a combined population of approximately 22,000 residents across more than 7,000 accounts, supported by wells, treatment facilities, storage tanks, pump stations, wastewater treatment plants, and pipeline networks. Monthly user rates are the primary funding source for operation, maintenance, and capital improvements.

With Council approval, the rate structure will be implemented beginning January 1, 2026.